The U.S. Coast Guard reported a tragic incident on Monday, confirming the deaths of two children and critical injuries to two others following a catastrophic maritime accident in Miami Beach. A barge collided forcefully with a sailboat carrying six participants from the Miami Youth Sailing Foundation's summer program.
The accident took place at approximately 11:00 AM near Hibiscus Island. According to the official report, a group consisting of five young girls and a 19-year-old counselor was aboard the sailboat when it was struck with significant force by the barge. This impact caused the sailboat to sink rapidly, tossing its occupants into the water.
As per NBC News, some individuals may have been trapped beneath the barge. Rescue teams, including Miami Beach Fire Rescue, Miami-Dade, City of Miami, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), and the Coast Guard, swiftly responded to the scene. Although all victims were pulled from the water, initial accounts suggest entrapment under the barge for some.
Two girls, aged 7 and 13, were transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where they were pronounced dead upon arrival. An 8-year-old and an 11-year-old remain hospitalized in critical condition. Two other survivors, aged 12 and 19, were assessed on-site and did not require hospitalization.
“Six individuals entered the water. All were rescued. Unfortunately, two did not survive. The sailboat remains submerged beneath the barge,” confirmed the Miami Sector of the Coast Guard.
The sailing club issued a statement on social media emphasizing that their “priority is the safety and well-being of everyone involved. We are working closely with authorities to fully understand what happened.”
The victims' identities have not been publicly disclosed, but the tragedy resonates deeply among those who view these summer programs as vital for youth integration.
While the Coast Guard enforces a 250-yard safety perimeter at the accident site and leads the investigation with the FWC, numerous questions remain unanswered. Authorities have not yet indicated whether charges will be filed or released details regarding the barge's crew. Their primary focus is on uncovering the facts and ensuring medical and psychological support for the affected families.
Frequently Asked Questions About Miami Boat Collision
What caused the boat collision in Miami Beach?
The collision was caused when a barge violently struck a sailboat carrying participants from a summer program, leading to the tragic accident.
Who is investigating the Miami boat accident?
The U.S. Coast Guard, in collaboration with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, is leading the investigation into the accident.
Have the identities of the victims been released?
As of now, the identities of the victims have not been made public.